Introduction:
The way you hang your curtains can completely transform a room. Beyond fabric and colour choices, the hanging method influences how curtains fall, how smoothly they operate, and how well they block light.
This guide breaks down 8 popular curtain hanging styles, perfect for modern Australian homes—from coastal living rooms to contemporary apartments.
1. Four-Prong Hook
Description: The hook can be threaded to create different numbers of pleats.
Pros: Very flexible; allows customised pleat spacing.
Cons: Threading can be fiddly and may require patience.
Suitable For: Track systems and Roman rods with rings.
Style Notes:
Creates a structured, tailored look ideal for formal living rooms or dining areas.
Pairs beautifully with heavier fabrics such as velvet, chenille, or thick linen.
Works especially well for extra-long curtains, helping them hold shape elegantly.
2. Pinch Pleat Hook
Description: Currently one of the most popular hanging methods.
Pros: Offers clean, elegant folds; double-fold pinch pleats achieve the best look.
Cons: Requires accurate spacing during installation.
Suitable For: Curtain rails and Roman rods with rings.
Design Insight:
A timeless choice for bedrooms, living rooms, and lounges, offering a classic tailored appearance.
Suits both lightweight and medium-weight fabrics.
When paired with lined curtains, it provides excellent insulation—ideal for Australian homes with strong summer sun.
3. Grommet Curtains
Description: Rod-hanging method with metal eyelets at the top.
Pros: Smooth gliding action and well-defined wave-like folds.
Cons: Some light may escape from the top.
Suitable For: Roman rods or standard curtain rods.
Style Notes:
Complements modern, minimalist, and contemporary interiors, especially in open-plan living areas.
Great for linen, cotton, or blended fabrics that drape naturally.
Works well in relaxed spaces such as casual lounges or kitchens.
4. Pencil Pleat Curtains
Description: Folds are formed by gathering fabric across the header.
Pros: Versatile, traditional, and suitable for different décor styles.
Cons: May not draw as smoothly compared to other systems.
Suitable For: Curtain rods or tracks.
Additional Insight:
Particularly effective with full-bodied or textured fabrics, creating a soft, rich drape.
Suits formal bedrooms, dining rooms, and living areas.
Works well with thermal or blackout lining for better light control and insulation.
5. Tab Top Curtains
Description: Fabric loops at the top allow the rod to slide through.
Pros: Relaxed, natural aesthetic; easy to install, remove, wash, and change.
Suitable For: Linen, gauze, or lighter fabrics.
Style Notes:
Perfect for coastal, Japanese-inspired, or casual interiors.
Ideal for sunrooms, home offices, and children’s rooms due to easy maintenance.
Pairing with a sheer layer helps soften sunlight while maintaining privacy.
6. Gathered Tape Curtains
Description: A rod-through method where gathering tape shapes the header.
Pros: Soft decorative folds with a textured look.
Cons: Adjusting the gathers can be tricky once installed.
Suitable For: Rod-hanging setups.
Design Tip:
Great for bedrooms, sitting rooms, and cosy living areas, adding subtle structure.
Works best with medium-weight fabrics.
Can be layered with sheers for daytime privacy and gentle light diffusion.
7. Stainless Steel Curtain Clips
Description: Clips grip the fabric and hang from a rod.
Pros: Excellent for DIY; relaxed, artistic, and flexible.
Cons: Requires even spacing to maintain a neat appearance.
Additional Insight:
Ideal for renters, creative homes, or upcycled fabric projects.
Suitable for fabrics of all thicknesses.
Great for temporary installations or spaces where you frequently change curtains.
8. Ripple Fold Curtains
Description: Uses dedicated tracks and ball bearings for consistent spacing and smooth wave patterns.
Pros: Clean, modern lines; effortless sliding motion.
Cons: Requires a precise installation environment.
Suitable For: Modern homes, offices, and large windows.
Style Notes:
Works beautifully in Australian contemporary apartments and open-plan homes.
Best with medium-weight fabrics to maintain continuous wave shapes.
Pair with suitable lining for bedrooms or theatre rooms to enhance light control and thermal performance.
Reference inspiration: Curtain systems by leading Australian curtain suppliers.
Conclusion
These eight curtain hanging styles offer a spectrum of looks—from relaxed and breezy to tailored and luxurious. The best choice depends on your interior style, window type, fabric weight, and the level of light control you need. Whether you prefer the sleek modern feel of ripple folds or the elegant structure of pinch pleats, choosing the right hanging method will elevate your curtains from functional to beautifully designed features in your home.
